Have you ever heard of people sleeping with their eyes open? It may sound strange, but it's actually more common than you think. About 20% of people, including babies, experience nocturnal lagophthalmos, which is the medical term for sleeping with your eyes open. If you have this condition, you can usually close your eyes most of the time when you sleep, but not all of the time. People with nocturnal lagophthalmos may find it helpful to practice blinking more frequently and fully during waking hours to make sure their eyes have enough moisture.
Treatment for sleeping with the eyes open is usually straightforward and can include eye drops, eyelid weights, air humidifiers, and even gold surgical implants inserted into the eyelid to keep the eye closed while sleeping. In some cases, sleeping with the eyes open can be caused by Graves' ophthalmopathy, in which the eyes bulge or protrude. This can make it difficult to close the eyes. Other causes include problems with the facial muscles, nerves or skin surrounding the eyelids.
Most people realise they have slept with their eyes open because someone else tells them they have done so. Don't let your uncomfortable sleep-related eye symptoms go untreated, and you'll finally get the serious rest you deserve. It's important to talk to a doctor if you're concerned about your eyes or the amount of sleep you're getting.
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